Monday 19 February 2018 10:19, UK
Rory McIlroy insisted Tiger Woods was "very close" to finding top form despite missing the cut at the Genesis Open.
McIlroy enjoyed a close-up view of Woods' game over the first two rounds as they were grouped together along with reigning FedExCup champion Justin Thomas at Riviera Country Club.
Woods produced a similar performance to Torrey Pines last month as he struggled to find the fairways with his driver, and although his short game bailed him out several times on day one, he was unable to save par on eight holes in a disappointing 76 that left him four shots adrift of the cut line.
But McIlroy offered a positive assessment of Woods, who was making only his second start in a full-field PGA Tour event since returning to action from spinal fusion surgery last year.
"He's very close," said McIlroy, who fired a second-round 69 as he and Thomas both made it safely through to the weekend on two under par.
"Give him a little bit of time. He's still figuring a few things out with equipment, I think, sort of in between drivers and whatever, but he's close.
"I thought his short game display on Thursday was very, very impressive. He struggled a little bit more today, but he hits enough good shots to know that if he sort of pieces it all together, he's going to be right there.
"I think everyone just has to be patient with him, especially him being patient with it and just give himself time."
McIlroy also hinted Woods was at a disadvantage due to the distractions from the vast galleries that follow him every time he tees it up on the PGA Tour.
"I swear, playing in front of all that, he gives up half a shot a day on the field," McIlroy added. "It's tiring, I've got a headache after all that. He has to deal with that every single time he goes out to play."
